This stunning stratovolcano dominates the Taranaki region on the middle west coast of New Zealand's north island. Mount Taranaki, or Taranaki Maunga in Maori, is 2,518 meters, or over 8,000 feet. Its alternate name is Mt. Egmont, named by Captain Cook when he explored the islands. A recent agreement with the local Maori has cemented the mountain's name as Taranaki, while the national park that surrounds it is known as Egmont Park.

We stayed in the small town of Patea, once the foremost cheese exporting port in the world. This sculpture is The Garden of Tutunui, commemorating a legendary whale.

Taranaki is a giant watching over the countryside throughout the area.

Taranaki seen from Lake Mangamahoe, a lovely park near New Plymouth.

Hiking the trails of Egmont Park, on the knees of Taranaki.

The volcano last erupted in the mid-1800s. Scientists say a major eruption is "overdue" . . .

The beaches around the Taranaki Bight tend to be pebbly . . .

. . . but you also get some beautiful black sand in places!

The city of New Plymouth has many picturesque wonders, not the least of which is Pukekura Park.

Cypress trees are ubiquitous but non-native in New Zealand.

Paritutu Rock is a 500 ft vertical stone, the remnant of a volcanic cone in downtown New Plymouth. It's a thrilling vertical climb to the top, with gorgeous views around the area.

Just some folks hangin' around in downtown New Plymouth.

Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is a collaboration between city officials and the local Maori tribe. The north side of the river is a Maori burial ground (Rewarewa) from the Musket Wars with the English. The sacred Mt. Taranaki is framed when looking from the burial site through the bridge.